NHL Rumour Roundup: Tomas Plekanec, Max Domi and Brandon Saad

CHICAGO, IL - SEPTEMBER 23: Chicago Blackhawks left wing Brandon Saad (20) looks on in the first period during a Preseason game between the Chicago Blackhawks and the Columbus Blue Jackets on September 23, 2017, at the United Center in Chicago, IL. (Photo by Robin Alam/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Rumour: During the latest edition of Hockey Night in Canada, Sportsnet’s Nick Kypreos said there are teams interested in the Montreal Canadiens centre Tomas Plekanec. The San Jose Sharks and the Pittsburgh Penguins are in the mix. Plekanec’s price tag is $6 million per season but is a free agent at the end of the season.

Analysis: The Sharks are in desperate need of help at centre after the loss ofJoe Thornton. San Jose is relying on a wide array of pivots, but Plekanec can be helpful in winning defensive draws and killing penalties.

The Penguins are already rich at the centre spot but would love to have Plekanec to ease the burden on Sidney Crosby when it comes to winning faceoffs. Riley Sheahan has been a solid pickup, but Pittsburgh would look to add a key defensive player.

Rumor: Saturday’s Headlines on HNIC speculated that the Arizona Coyotes are still testing the market on forward Max Domi. The son of enforcer Tie Domi is struggling on offensive as he only has three goals and 22 points in 54 games this season.

Analysis: The same segment did say that the Coyotes aren’t necessarily giving up on Domi, but a fresh start could help. Domi’s offensive totals have plummeted from his 18-goal, rookie season in 2015-16. However, a new team may kickstart the 12th overall pick in the 2013 NHL draft.

Rumor: In Elliotte Friedman’s 31 Thoughts column, the Chicago Blackhawks could be in the market to trade Brandon Saad… again. Chicago is in need of cap relief and Saad fetches $6 million a season. The Blackhawks need to decide if they will buy or sell before the Feb. 26 deadline.

Analysis: Getting rid of Saad’s contract would be massive, but it’s always hard to deal a young player that has solid offensive potential. Saad is only two seasons removed from a 31-goal season in 2015-16. He has 13 goals and 11 assists in 55 games this season and would get a nice return if general manager Stan Bowman decides to sell.

CHICAGO, IL – SEPTEMBER 23: Chicago Blackhawks left wing Brandon Saad (20) looks on in the first period during a Preseason game between the Chicago Blackhawks and the Columbus Blue Jackets on September 23, 2017, at the United Center in Chicago, IL. (Photo by Robin Alam/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Longtime sportswriter for the Watertown Daily Times. I have covered minor league and NCAA hockey in women's Division I and men's Division III. Also produce the nationally-syndicated Spadora on Sports radio show.